Definition

To break or remove the mast from a sailing ship, often due to an accident or for storage purposes.

Example

The storm was so strong that it demasted the old ship, leaving it helpless in the water.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear that they had to demast the old sailboat yesterday?

No way! What happened?

Apparently, there was a storm that came out of nowhere.

Yikes! I hope they can fix it and get it back in the water soon.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Demast → It originates from the prefix 'de-' (meaning down or away) and 'mast' (from Old English 'masta', meaning the main vertical pole of a ship). The word 'demast' means to take down or remove the mast from a ship.

Memory Tip

Think of 'taking down' ('de-') the main pole ('mast') of a ship — that's what demast means.

Visually Confused Words